The skin-care world can be a bit overwhelming. While it's fun to have all the pastel colored and glittery skincare products for the perfect Instagram #shelfie, it's hard to know for sure that you're putting the right products onto your skin.

For skin-care enthusiasts especially, it's easy to find yourself lost in the depths of online shopping and beauty blogs. And while self-educating is super important, you can never go wrong with getting an expert opinion. So, regardless of what Instagram says, here's what makes a good skin-care routine, according to professional dermatologists.

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Don’t just cleanse — double cleanse, especially at night.

You should be cleansing twice.
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The most integral part of taking care of your skin is, of course, cleansing it, day and night. Sejal Shah, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology told SELF that double cleansing (cleansing twice) in the evening is equally crucial.

"Remember it's not just makeup that's going to build up on your skin," she said. "It's also the products you've used during the day, pollutants, and debris that build up during the course of the day."

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Protect your skin and prevent damage with sunscreen.

No exceptions. Most dermatologists will agree that sun protection is the most important step in any skincare routine. It's "of utmost importance as part of your year-round regimen," Dr. Carlos Charles told New York Times' T Magazine.

"Daily and consistent sunscreen use helps to prevent the development of fine lines and wrinkles, textural imperfections, and changes in the appearance of pores over time. More importantly, daily sunscreen use can help to prevent the formation of certain skin cancers." Shoot for a daily moisturizer that contains at least SPF 30.

If you struggle with acne, research scientist, dermatologist, and author of "The Beauty of Dirty Skin" Dr. Whitney Bowe previously told Business Insider "I have long been a fan of the Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen. For my acne prone patients, I recommend 'non-comedogenic' products like this one, meaning the product will not clog your pores."

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Use an antioxidant serum in the morning.

Vitamin C is a common ingredient in serums.
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Antioxidant serums are usually ones that contain Vitamin C, among other skin-boosting ingredients. "An antioxidant serum has a protective and preventive quality," Dr. Shah told SELF. "Free radicals are created by environmental pollutants and ultraviolet radiation. An antioxidant serum helps to counteract those free radicals that are also very damaging to the skin."

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Exfoliate twice per week.

Exfoliation promotes cell turnover (AKA smooth skin), which begins to slow around age 25, according to SELF. You can use physical exfoliants like scrubs, or chemical exfoliants— products that contain hyaluronic, glycolic, or lactic acid.

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Use a nighttime moisturizer.

Moisturizing is exactly what it sounds like — it helps your skin retain moisture, which keeps it feeling soft and looking young, longer. According to T Magazine, the right moisturizer for you will depend on any skin sensitivities you may have. When in doubt, pick a gentle one with simple ingredients.